Holi colours contain PM10 and can induce pro-inflammatory responses

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Immunology

Background:

• Holi festivals involve throwing coloured powders, potentially causing skin, eye, and respiratory issues.
• The underlying mechanisms of these adverse health effects are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the particle size, inflammatory potential, and cytotoxicity of Holi colours.
• To uncover mechanisms behind Holi colour-induced health effects.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Holi colour particle size (PM10) using electric field cell counting.
• Incubation of human cells with Holi colours to assess pro-inflammatory cytokine production (ELISA) and leukocyte oxidative burst (flow cytometry).
• Cytotoxicity tests (XTT, Propidium iodide) and endotoxin measurement (LAL test).

Main Results:

• All tested Holi colours contained over 40% PM10 particles; two contained over 75%.
• Holi colours induced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and oxidative burst in human leukocytes.
• Some Holi colours and corn starch (carrier) contained endotoxins; certain colours showed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. Fungal contamination was found in one sample.

Conclusions:

• High PM10 content, induction of pro-inflammatory responses, and oxidative leukocyte burst likely contribute to adverse health effects of Holi colours.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the toxicological profile of Holi colours.